Sporting community left ‘absolutely gutted’ following the sudden passing of AFL star Troy Selwood

Feb 05, 2025
As news of Selwood's passing spread, the AFL community, along with fans, paid tribute to a "wonderful person," with many expressing how much they "loved watching him play." Source: Dean Lewins/AAP PHOTOS.

The AFL community is in mourning today following the sudden death of former Brisbane Lions star Troy Selwood who sadly passed away at the age of 40.

Selwood’s family announced that he passed away on Tuesday, February 4, in a statement in which his loved ones reflected on the “joy and light” he brought to those close to him.

“We are heartbroken by the loss of our son, brother and father, Troy this morning. We will miss Troy more than words can express,” the family said.

“Troy was a much loved and loving member of our family. Over the course of his life, Troy brought joy and light to all who knew him.

“He was a loving son of Maree and Bryce, a supportive and caring brother to Adam, Joel and Scott, and a doting father of beautiful children Tom and Sadie.

“We will miss Troy’s bravery, his humour, his deep thinking, his love and compassion. Troy had a generosity of spirit, cared deeply about people and strove to make the lives of others better.

“We are grateful to all those that have supported Troy throughout his life, and we know that his many friends, teammates and colleagues will miss him greatly.”

Born on May 1, 1984, Selwood’s AFL journey began when he was drafted by the Brisbane Lions with the 19th pick in the 2002 AFL Draft from Sandhurst. After spending the 2003 and 2004 seasons on the sidelines, he made his debut for the Lions in Round 1, 2005, wearing the number 28 guernsey against St Kilda. Between 2005 and 2010, Selwood played 75 games for the Lions.

After being delisted by Brisbane at the end of 2010, Selwood joined his brothers Joel and later Scott at Geelong, playing for their VFL team. He led the Cats to a VFL premiership in 2012 and continued to play the following year, before retiring after a loss in the 2013 VFL Grand Final.

As news of Selwood’s passing spread, the AFL community, along with fans, paid tribute to a “wonderful person,” with many expressing how much they “loved watching him play.”

If you or anyone you know needs help: Lifeline — 13 11 14; MensLine Australia — 1300 789 978; BeyondBlue — 1300 224 636; Suicide Call Back Service — 1300 659 467; Headspace — 1800 650 890; Kids Helpline — 1800 551 800.

-with AAP.

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